Carrying the torch for the maestros.

• Author: Holston, Mark
• Position: Music Notes

Vicente Fernandez Lo Mejor de Lara (Columbia 2-505805)

Alejandro Fernandez Un Canto de Mexico: 100 Anos de Musica Mexicana (Columbia 2-505812)

Pepe Aguilar Y Tenerte Otra Vez (Univision Records 0883 10119 2)

Mexico's grand popular-music tradition, with a special emphasis on its regal and rustic mariachi and ranchera styles, is celebrated on three exceptional releases by singers who've come to personify their land's great passion for its national music.

Vicente Fernandez, the dean of Mexico's ranchera style, has chosen to lavish his attention on Mexico's most famous composer, Agustin Lara, on a twelve-track collection of such beloved and internationally known hits as "Farolito," "Solamente una vez," "Maria bonita," and "Veracruz." His effortless way with these lustrous melodies is particularly persuasive. His suave voice is a perfect match for the sentimental mood of these pop-music masterworks.

Son Alejandro, known equally for his success in pop--and traditional-music styles and his acting career, offers a more far-reaching program--Un Canto de Mexico: 100 Anos de Musica Mexicana, a two-CD set. His survey of regional styles includes a focus on such genres as the bolero and the artistry of individual Mexican composers and interpreters, including Lara, Juan Gabriel, and his father. The twenty-two-track program was recorded live before a concert audience in Mexico City's Palacio de Bellas Artes and features the Mexican Philharmonic Orchestra among other classical ensembles. Guest vocalists include Pedro Infante and Eugenia Leon. Mariachi-style strings and the young Fernandez's romantic voice are an effective combination on such well-known fare as "Noche de ronda" and "Besame mucho."

Another member of Mexico's popular music elite is ranchera heartthrob Aguilar, who bas produced an album that ranges seamlessly from the orchestral, mariachi-rooted tracks to covers of more pop-oriented fare, including works by Juan Gabriel and Amanda Miguel. Aguilar's voice is remarkably versatile--he shifts effortlessly from the sweet overtones of a feathery delivery on sentimental ranchera songs to the more robustly passionate approach on "Alma en pena," an album highlight. The session's rich symphonic trappings and stylistic variety are keys to its classy air.

Andre Mehmari Canto (Nucleo Contemporaneo NC 020)

Mario Seve & Marcelo Fagerlande Bach & Pixinguinha (Nucleo Contemporaneo NC 017)

Orquestra Popular de Camara (Nucleo Contemporaneo NC 008)

Mozar Terra...